Razzle Dazzle Life

  • Delicious Recipes
  • Recipe Videos
  • About Me
    • Work with me
    • Contact
  • Shop
  • Privacy Policy
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Delicious Recipes
  • Recipe Videos
  • About Me
    • Work with me
    • Contact
  • Shop
  • Privacy Policy
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • Delicious Recipes
  • Recipe Videos
  • About Me
    • Work with me
    • Contact
  • Shop
  • Privacy Policy
×
Razzle Dazzle Life » Mexican Inspired

HOMEMADE CHALUPA

This post was last updated on November 5, 2024 at 3:39 am

August 13, 2019 by Tamara J. 31 Comments

Thanks for sharing!

381 shares
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • Email
Take Me to the Recipe

This homemade Chalupa recipe includes a crispy fried flatbread shell, loaded with shredded chicken, cheese, lettuce, and juicy tomatoes. While Taco Bell chalupas made this traditional Mexican dish famous, making it yourself brings a whole new level of flavor.

For more Taco Bell-inspired recipes, try my Better Than Taco Bell Breakfast Crunchwrap, Nacho Fries, and Mexican Pizza Recipe next.

plated chalupas beside lime wedges

Chalupa Recipe

When I think of chalupas, I think of that perfect balance; crispy on the outside, with a chewy inside. The shells are light, airy, and easy to make at home. So skip the drive-through for something fresher and even more satisfying.

And the chicken? It’s no ordinary filling! I generously season it with homemade taco seasoning, for a bold, savory kick. Then, to take it up a notch, I toss in a couple of chopped chipotle peppers, adding smoky depth that makes every bite pop with flavor. Trust me, once you try these homemade chalupas, you’ll want them on repeat!

What is a Chalupa?

A chalupa is a Mexican street food staple made from fried dough, often served like a tostada with delicious toppings piled high. The Taco Bell Chalupa introduced many to this crispy and chewy treat, but this homemade version takes it a step further with a fresh, from-scratch shell.

Ingredients

Chalupa Bread

  • Flour: All-purpose flour is best here for creating a light, airy dough that crisps up nicely when fried.
  • Butter: The fat adds richness and a bit of flakiness to the chalupa shell. Make sure it’s cold for easier mixing.
  • Milk: This helps bind the dough together while adding moisture and a touch of creaminess to the shell.
  • Baking Powder: Essential for a light and slightly puffy shell that fries up with a soft yet chewy texture.
  • Salt: Just a touch to balance flavors and bring out the buttery notes in the dough.
  • Vegetable Oil: Used for frying, it gives the chalupa shells their crispy exterior without overpowering flavors.

Filling & Topping

  • Chicken Breast: Go for cooked and shredded chicken to keep the texture tender and ideal for the filling.
  • Chipotle Peppers: These add a smoky heat that elevates the flavor of the chicken filling. You can always adjust the amount to your spice preference.
  • Seasoning: A mix of seasoned salt, chili powder, cumin, and oregano brings depth and a Mexican-inspired flavor to the chicken.
  • Olive Oil: Used to sear the chicken, adding richness and helping the seasonings stick.
  • Water: A little water helps deglaze the pan and keeps the chicken filling juicy.

How to Make Chalupas

See recipe card for ingredient quantities and full instructions.

How to Make Chalupa Shells

I add all the dry ingredients to a large bowl and give them a good mix. Then, I work in the butter with my hands (or a pastry cutter) until the mixture looks crumbly.

Next, I pour in the milk, mixing until the dough just starts to come together. I like to form the dough into small balls, then roll each one out on a lightly floured surface until it’s about a quarter-inch thick.

Using a pizza cutter, I cut the dough into rough circles, ready for frying. For each chalupa, I fry it for 2-3 minutes on each side, shaping it with tongs as it cooks to get that perfect taco shell shape.

Once they’re golden brown and lightly crispy, I let them drain on a paper towel or baking rack. Now they’re ready for the taco fillings!

Prepare the Shredded Chicken

To season the chicken, I sprinkle on the seasoned salt, chili powder, cumin, and oregano, making sure each piece is well coated. I heat a bit of olive oil in a skillet, then sear the chicken for about 7 minutes per side.

Once cooked, I set it aside to cool down a bit, then shred it using two forks. After that, I return the shredded chicken to the skillet with chopped chipotle peppers and a bit of water, letting everything simmer for about 10 minutes to blend the flavors.

Assemble Chalupas

Finally, it’s time to bring everything together. I fill each crispy chalupa shell with the seasoned chicken, then top with shredded cheddar, lettuce, diced tomato, and onion. You can add any other favorite toppings to make them your own.

Pro Tips

  • Use cold butter for the dough. Cold butter creates a light and flaky texture in the chalupa shell, adding crispiness after frying.
  • Roll the dough evenly. Aim for about ¼-inch thickness for an even cook and a perfect balance between crispy and chewy.
  • Check the oil temperature. Frying at 350°F helps achieve a golden, crispy shell without it soaking up too much oil.
  • Shape the shell with tongs. Fold the dough into a taco shape using tongs as it fries to get that classic chalupa look.
  • Season the chicken generously. Flavorful fillings are key, so don’t skimp on the seasonings for the chicken.
  • Reheat shells in the oven. If making shells ahead, a quick reheat in the oven restores their crispiness without drying them out.

plated chalupas beside lime wedges and avocado slices

Storage

Chalupa shells are best enjoyed immediately when they're at their crispiest. If you want to save leftovers, store the shells in an airtight container at room temperature and keep the fillings refrigerated separately. When ready to reheat, warm the shells in the oven or air fryer to crisp them up and heat the filling before assembling.

Recipe Variations

  • Protein: Swap the chicken for seasoned ground beef, black beans, or try shredded beef for a heartier filling. For a seafood twist, grilled or fried white fish like tilapia or cod also works beautifully in a chalupa.
  • Topping Ideas: Add a dollop of sour cream, creamy avocados, or refried beans to make it your own. For an extra kick, top it off with creamy jalapeno salsa. And if you love guacamole as much as we do, don’t skip a generous scoop. It’s a household favorite, especially for tacos and chalupas.

FAQ

How is a chalupa different from a taco?

The main difference lies in the shell. Chalupas use a thicker, fried flatbread that’s crispy outside and chewy inside, while tacos typically have thinner, soft, or hard shells. This unique chalupa shell creates a satisfying texture perfect for holding flavorful fillings.

Is a chalupa just a fried tortilla?

Not quite! While a chalupa is fried like a tortilla, it’s made from a softer, doughier base that creates a thicker and chewier shell. This difference in texture sets chalupas apart from simple fried tortillas.

How can I keep the shells from getting too oily?

Make sure the oil is hot enough (about 350°F) before frying. This helps the shells crisp up without absorbing too much oil. After frying, place the shells on paper towels or a baking rack to drain excess oil.

More Taco Recipes

Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:

  • close up view of chicken tacos
    Crispy Cheesy Chicken Tinga Tacos
  • plated brisket tacos drizzled with jalapeno ranch
    Cheesy and Crispy Brisket Tacos
  • shrimp tacos setting on a platter with a side of lime wedges
    Quick and Easy Shrimp Tacos
  • plated taco dorados
    Tacos Dorados

After you try this Chalupa recipe, I'd love to hear your thoughts. Comment below and follow me on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube for more delicious recipes!

📖 Recipe

plated chalupas beside avocado slices, lime wedge, and pepper

Homemade Chalupa

This homemade Chalupa recipe includes a crispy fried flatbread shell, loaded with shredded chicken, cheese, lettuce, and juicy tomatoes. While Taco Bell chalupas made this traditional Mexican dish famous, making it yourself brings a whole new level of flavor.
Print Recipe SaveSaved! Rate Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes minutes
Course: dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: chalupa, chalupa bread, chalupa recipe, chalupa taco shell, chalupas, chalupas recipe, taco bell chalupa, What is a chalupa, What’s in a chalupa
Servings: 8 Shells
Calories: 1031kcal
Author: Tamara J.

Ingredients

Chalupa Shell

  • 5 cups Flour
  • 3 tablespoons Butter
  • 1 ½ cups Milk
  • 2 tablespoons Baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon Salt
  • 2 cups Vegetable oil for frying

Filling & Topping

  • 3 Chicken breast cooked and shredded
  • 2 Chipotle peppers chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Seasoned salt
  • 1 ½ tablespoon Chili powder
  • ½ tablespoon Cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil to sear chicken
  • ½ cup Water
  • 1 cup Cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup Lettuce shredded
  • 1 Tomato diced
  • ½ Onion diced

Instructions

Chalupa Shells

  • Add all dry ingredients to a large bowl. Mix well.
  • Add butter, using hands or a pastry cutter, mix butter and flour until crumbly mixture forms.
  • Add milk and mix until dough begins to form.
  • Form into balls, lightly flour a flat surface. Roll out dough until ¼ inch thickness is obtained.
  • Using pizza cutter, cut dough into a rough circle.
  • Fry chalupa shells for 2-3 mins per side, one at a time, using tongs to food over into taco shell shape.
  • Once golden brown and lightly crispy, Drain excess oil on paper towels or baking rack.
  • Add your favorite fillings and toppings.

Chicken

  • Season chicken liberally with all of the seasonings.
  • Add the olive oil to a skillet, sear the chicken for 7 mins per side. Remove it from the skillet and place it in a bowl to cool.
  • Once the chicken is cool enough, use two forks, or tongs, to shred the chicken.
  • Add the chicken, diced chipotle pepper, and water back to the skillet. Simmer on low for 10 mins.
  • Assemble the chalupas with the chicken and all of the desired toppings.

Recommended Products

French Rolling Pin (17 Inches) –WoodenRoll Pin for Fondant, Pie Crust, Cookie, Pastry, Dough –Tapered Design & Smooth Construction - Essential Kitchen Utensil
French Rolling Pin (17 Inches) –WoodenRoll Pin for Fondant, Pie Crust, Cookie, Pastry, Dough –Tapered Design & Smooth Construction - Essential Kitchen Utensil
Kaluns Tongs For Cooking With Silicone Tips, 4 Piece Salad Tongs, Red, Stainless Steel 7-9-12 Inch Tong With Bonus Silicone Spatula, Non-stick, Heat resistant Serving Utensils
Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet 2-Piece Set (10-Inch and 12-Inch) Oven Safe Cookware - 2 Heat-Resistant Holders - Indoor and Outdoor Use - Grill, Stovetop, Induction Safe
Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet 2-Piece Set (10-Inch and 12-Inch) Oven Safe Cookware - 2 Heat-Resistant Holders - Indoor and Outdoor Use - Grill, Stovetop, Induction Safe
bamfitwell Bamboo Cutting Board with Juice Groove
bamfitwell Bamboo Cutting Board with Juice Groove
SAKEN Paring Knife, 3.5 Inch - Ultra Sharp, High Carbon German Steel Knives - Luxury Gift Box
SAKEN Paring Knife, 3.5 Inch - Ultra Sharp, High Carbon German Steel Knives - Luxury Gift Box
Meal Prep Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls Set, Home, Refrigerator, and Kitchen Food Storage Organizers | Ecofriendly, Reusable, Heavy Duty By WHYSKO (With Black Lids)
Meal Prep Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls Set, Home, Refrigerator, and Kitchen Food Storage Organizers | Ecofriendly, Reusable, Heavy Duty By WHYSKO (With Black Lids)

Nutrition

Serving: 6People | Calories: 1031kcal | Carbohydrates: 67g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 72g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 56g | Trans Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 77mg | Sodium: 1308mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 2g
Did you make this recipe?Please leave a comment on the blog and tag me in your photo on Instagram or Facebook!

More Mexican Inspired

  • picadillo or ground beef with potatoes in a white bowl with quesadillas next to it on a table
    Picadillo (Ground Beef and Potatoes)
  • A taco bowl filled with roasted sweet potatoes, ground beef, avocado slices, shredded lettuce, pico de gallo, and a drizzle of creamy pink sauce, garnished with lime.
    Flavor Packed Sweet Potato Taco Bowl
  • A plate of taco rice topped with melted cheese, fresh lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a creamy sauce, served alongside a bowl filled with the same flavorful mixture.
    Cheesy Southwest Taco Rice Skillet
  • a bowl of beef and vegetable soup with a side of lime wedges and Mexican rice on a table setting
    Caldo de Res (Hearty Mexican Beef Soup)

Thanks for sharing!

381 shares
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • Email

Comments

    4.95 from 18 votes (2 ratings without comment)

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




  1. Amanda says

    December 04, 2019 at 2:51 am

    How many chalupas does this recipe make?

    Reply
    • Tamara J. says

      December 05, 2019 at 9:18 pm

      Hi Rosa. This recipe makes about 10 chalupa shells.

      Reply
  2. Tamara J. says

    August 19, 2019 at 11:17 am

    Yes! They are truly amazing.

    Reply
  3. Aline says

    August 17, 2019 at 6:06 pm

    5 stars
    I never made chalupas before! This recipe looks super easy and delicious - thanks for sharing!! xx

    Reply
  4. Aline says

    August 17, 2019 at 6:06 pm

    5 stars
    I never made chalupas before! This recipe looks super easy and delicious - thanks for sharing!! xx

    Reply
    • Tamara J. says

      August 19, 2019 at 11:17 am

      You are welcome. I hope you give them a try, and enjoy!

      Reply
  5. Jazz says

    August 17, 2019 at 4:58 pm

    5 stars
    My life has been forever changed for the better by homemade chalupa shells!

    Reply
  6. Jazz says

    August 17, 2019 at 4:58 pm

    5 stars
    My life has been forever changed for the better by homemade chalupa shells!

    Reply
    • Tamara J. says

      August 22, 2019 at 11:48 am

      Haha! They are amazing!

      Reply
  7. Katrina Adams says

    August 17, 2019 at 12:20 pm

    5 stars
    I love Mexican food! I will definitely be trying this recipe!

    Reply
  8. Katrina Adams says

    August 17, 2019 at 12:20 pm

    5 stars
    I love Mexican food! I will definitely be trying this recipe!

    Reply
    • Tamara J. says

      August 17, 2019 at 12:31 pm

      You will love them!

      Reply
  9. Mila Clarke Buckley says

    August 16, 2019 at 4:13 pm

    5 stars
    I've always wanted to learn, and now I know! They're delish.

    Reply
  10. Mila Clarke Buckley says

    August 16, 2019 at 4:13 pm

    5 stars
    I've always wanted to learn, and now I know! They're delish.

    Reply
    • Tamara J. says

      August 16, 2019 at 5:52 pm

      Yes, they are so yummy! Takes tacos to a whole different dimension!

      Reply
  11. SHANIKA says

    August 16, 2019 at 4:01 am

    5 stars
    This Chalupa recipe looks so good! This is one of my favorite Tacos, but never tried making it at home! YUM!

    Reply
  12. SHANIKA says

    August 16, 2019 at 4:01 am

    5 stars
    This Chalupa recipe looks so good! This is one of my favorite Tacos, but never tried making it at home! YUM!

    Reply
    • Tamara J. says

      August 16, 2019 at 5:52 pm

      They are so delicious! Give it a try.

      Reply
  13. Nakiesia says

    August 15, 2019 at 11:03 pm

    I make tacos occasionally but I never considered chalupa. Your recipe sounds easy and it looks delicious.

    Reply
    • Tamara J. says

      August 16, 2019 at 12:14 am

      They are so good. If you like tacos, you'll love these chalupa shells!

      Reply
  14. Jazzy's Mama says

    August 15, 2019 at 10:46 pm

    The shells look amazing! I'm definitely going to have to give them a try next time I make my crockpot chicken taco meat.

    Reply
    • Tamara J. says

      August 16, 2019 at 12:15 am

      Ohhh... that sounds like the perfect filling for these chalupa shells! Let me know what you think!

      Reply
  15. LaKita says

    August 15, 2019 at 12:26 pm

    5 stars
    I love chalupas but have never tried making them myself. This recipe looks so simple, I will definitely be giving it a try. Plus I already have all of those ingredients on hand!

    Reply
  16. LaKita says

    August 15, 2019 at 12:26 pm

    5 stars
    I love chalupas but have never tried making them myself. This recipe looks so simple, I will definitely be giving it a try. Plus I already have all of those ingredients on hand!

    Reply
    • Tamara J. says

      August 15, 2019 at 1:08 pm

      They were very easy to make- and like you said, the recipe calls for "everyday" ingredients. It'll be hard going back to regular tortillas again!

      Reply
  17. Renia says

    August 15, 2019 at 2:13 am

    5 stars
    This is perfect for Taco Tuesday or Thursday!

    Reply
  18. Renia says

    August 15, 2019 at 2:13 am

    5 stars
    This is perfect for Taco Tuesday or Thursday!

    Reply
    • Tamara J. says

      August 15, 2019 at 1:06 pm

      Yes, they made Taco Tuesday so fun for us!

      Reply
  19. Brittany Fiero says

    August 15, 2019 at 2:07 am

    5 stars
    This looks even better than the Taco Bell chalupa! I never knew I could make the shell at home. I'm pinning this and definitely going to try this!

    Reply
  20. Brittany Fiero says

    August 15, 2019 at 2:07 am

    5 stars
    This looks even better than the Taco Bell chalupa! I never knew I could make the shell at home. I'm pinning this and definitely going to try this!

    Reply
    • Tamara J. says

      August 15, 2019 at 1:05 pm

      They were life changing! Let me know what you think. 🙂

      Reply

HEY, Y'ALL!

I'm Tamara! I'm a Southern girl who has cooking in her blood. A wife and busy mom of four awesome kids. I love sharing fun family ideas, money saving life hacks, and have a variety of fool-proof family-friendly recipes for the family on the go. Learn more about Tamara


Footer

AS SEEN IN:

↑ back to top

About

  • Contact
  • Work with me

Exclusive Email Access

  • Sign Up! for emails and updates

Legal Jargon

  • Privacy Policy & Disclosures

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Copyright © 2025 Razzle Dazzle Life

Rate This Recipe

Your vote:




A rating is required
A name is required
An email is required

Recipe Ratings without Comment

Something went wrong. Please try again.